Near Balconies Cliffs Trails
Starting the hike to Balconies Cave. Our visit was at the end of April, wildflowers were in bloom and the grass was green and pretty against the rocks.
Near Balconies Cliffs Trails
You can best see the impressive rock formations from Balconies Cliffs Trail
Near Balconies Cliffs Trails
Sami in Balconies Cave
Near Balconies Cliffs Trails
Tight spaces through the Balconies Cave - flashlight required! We hiked the Balconies Cave Loop trail on September 11, 2017. Very nice!
Near Balconies Cliffs Trails
Rocks that have to be climbed over in the cave. You can notice the creek running through the cave.

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Driving Directions
Hike Trail

Balconies Cliffs Trails

4.6 (5 Ratings)
Climbing above the Balconies Cave, this trail offers views of Balconies Cliffs and its surroundings.
0.8
mi
Distance
175
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
Family FriendlyViewsWildflowers
Access Issues
Check for raptor closures before attempting any off-trail rxhing or climbing.

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
0.82mi
Distance
175ft
Elevation Gain
273ft
Elevation Loss
55%
Max Grade
1,464ft
High Point
1,191ft
Low Point
Path Type
Point to Point
Description
This trail is a great way to make a loop back to either Old Pinnacles Trail or Balconies Trail after having gone through Balconies Cave on the Balconies Cave Trail. If accessing this trail from the Balconies Trail, turn northwest at the sign marking the trailhead and begin ascending passed a rock formation called The Flumes, which sits to the west of the trail. Shortly thereafter, the trail gets up close and personal with one of the most imposing rock formations in Pinnalces NP, The Balconies. For much of this trail, The Balconies' water streaked face looms large to the west while another imposing rock feature looms large to the east, Machete Ridge. Other rock formations along this route include Osiris, Smiling Simian, and Toogs. Eventually, the trail will flatten out and begin descending where it will meet the junction with Old Pinnacles Trail and Balconies Cave Trail. Balconies Cave is situated in the gulch to east of this trail.

Route Conditions

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Contributors
Quin TCM